'Time is no barrier to justice' as 84-year-old jailed for child abuse
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A man has been jailed for the sexual abuse of a child dating back more than 50 years.
The abuse came to light when it was bravely reported to police by the victim in 2017.
The woman reported having been abused by Anthony Singleton, now aged 84, over a period of time in south Essex in the 1970s.
The case was then investigated by our public protection command and Singleton was invited to attend a voluntary interview.
When the victim’s accurate accounts were put to him, he consistently denied his behaviour.
However, as a result of our work, the Crown Prosecution Service authorised Singleton to be charged with two counts of indecent assault of a child and gross indecency with a girl.
In the case of non-recent offences, defendants must be charged according to the legislation in place at the time.
The case experienced significant delays as Singleton’s health issues were assessed. He was, however, ultimately assessed as fit to stand trial.
He denied the charges and a trial was due to begin in November last year. However, Singleton offered guilty pleas to both indecent assault charges which were accepted by the prosecution and the victim.
He was sentenced to a total of 67 weeks in prison at Basildon Crown Court on Tuesday 13 January.
Strength of victim
Detective Inspector Rob Maile said:
“This case shows that time is no barrier to justice.
“The offences happened more than 50 years ago, but the courage shown by the victim in coming forward - and the meticulous work by our teams - has ensured that Singleton has now been held accountable for his deplorable actions.
“I want to pay tribute to our victim for her bravery and dignity throughout the investigation and court process. I’m acutely aware this will not have been easy and the time between making her initial report and Singleton’s conviction is significant. I truly hope this provides some form of closure and allows her to move forward.”
DI Maile added:
“If you have experienced sexual abuse, whenever it happened, please tell us. You will be listened to, you will be supported, and we will do everything we can to seek justice.”